Extended Events have been available since SQL Server 2008, with Microsoft adding more functionality in each further release. Now with SQL Server 2012 there's no reason not to take the plunge (there's even a GUI!), and soon Microsoft won't give you a choice. In this presentation we'll take a look at why Microsoft have chosen this path, who benefits from Extended Events, what you can do with them and how to do it.

Stuart Moore is a Nottingham based SQL Server professional who started with SQL Server 7, and 15 years later is working with it and all versions since, including SQL Server 2012. Over the years he has worked as a Developer, a production and development DBA, and now offers consultancy and training on all aspects of SQL Server. More information can be found at http://www.leaf-node.co.uk and on twitter @napalmgram

Alex Whittles is the owner and lead consultant at Purple Frog, a SQL Server Business Intelligence consultancy with clients including Barclays Capital and Confused.com. He specialises in all aspects of dimensional data modelling, data warehousing and cubes using the SQL Server stack. Alex has an MSc in Business Intelligence, runs the Midlands SQL Server User Group and is chair of the SQL Relay 2013 conferences. As well as speaking at SQLBits, he is also a regular speaker at other events including SQL Saturday and SQL Server user groups around the country.